Historic Boost in Rice Procurement Target Achieved Through CM Vishnu Deo Sai’s Efforts: 8 Lakh Metric Tonne Increase Approved
Raipur, July 18
Prioritising the interests of the state’s farmers, the Chhattisgarh Government procured 149.25 lakh metric tonnes of paddy at Minimum Support Price (MSP) during the Kharif Marketing Season 2024–25 — the highest quantity procured since the formation of the state. The procured paddy is being swiftly processed through custom milling.
At the end of the procurement season, Chhattisgarh was allotted a Central Pool rice procurement target of 70 lakh metric tonnes. Including the quantity required for the state pool to support welfare schemes and the public distribution system, a total of 118.17 lakh metric tonnes of paddy was identified for custom milling.
In the interest of farmers, the state government took a proactive decision to dispose of surplus paddy through auction. So far, buyer orders have been issued for 19 lakh metric tonnes, and prompt lifting is underway by concerned buyers and millers. To ensure the safety of remaining stock stored at state procurement centres, the Food Department has implemented all necessary safeguards.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai has remained steadfast in his commitment to procure every single grain of paddy from the farmers of the state. In line with this commitment, he maintained consistent dialogue with the Central Government. Notably, on June 24, 2025, he met Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Shri Pralhad Joshi in New Delhi and urged him to increase the rice procurement target under the Central Pool.
These sustained efforts by CM Sai have yielded positive results. On July 18, 2025, the Government of India approved an increase in the rice procurement target from 70 lakh metric tonnes to 78 lakh metric tonnes. This decision is not only crucial for safeguarding farmers’ interests, but also protects the state government from a potential financial loss of approximately ₹1,200 crore. The enhanced target is expected to have a favourable impact on the state’s fiscal position and will further accelerate the implementation of various farmer-centric welfare schemes.
Expressing his gratitude to the Government of India, CM Sai said that this approval reflects the coordinated, farmer-friendly policy synergy between the Centre and the state. He reiterated the state government’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by millers’ associations and farmers and assured them that all their suggestions and requirements would be acted upon with a positive and responsive approach.